Snagging Construction: Types, Snagging Lists, and Process

It is an influential step in construction to guarantee that the finalised property meets the desired standards and specifications. It refers to identifying any minor defects in the building before handing it over to the client. Lists are prepared to capture any overlooked issues that need fixing before the final completion of the property. In this article, we will look in detail at the types, lists, and the snagging process.

What is Snagging in Construction?

The term “snag” refers to pinpointing the minor or neglected issues that pop up towards the end of the project. Through thorough snagging inspections, developers can avoid delays in delivering the project to the client. It is commonly a defect that can be fixed to meet a client’s requirement. It can also prevent future maintenance issues.

Process of Snagging

Snagging can be carried out in three phases of the construction project. They are as follows:

• Pre-handover phase: The final construction walkthrough is decisive for addressing issues and rectifying them as early as possible before the handover process. It ensures that all the aspects of the project meet the client’s specifications and requirements.
• Throughout the construction process: For larger projects, the contractor may use this proactive method to pick out the problems while the construction work is going on. The contractor may always have a checklist and verify whether the pending works are completed on time or not. It may also stop delays in the construction work.
• Post-completion phase: Once the project is completed, the contractor may revisit the site to ensure that the listed issues are rectified according to schedule. Any new issues can also be identified and solved quickly. After this process, the property is truly ready to hand over to the client.

Five steps are carried out to excel your snagging process, as mentioned below:

• Document the snags.
• Assign tasks to relevant individuals.
• Be clear in your communications.
• Use images to identify the snag issue.
• Optimise the snagging process with software for better outcomes.

Types of Snags in Construction

The types of snags that are profoundly found in the construction process are as follows:

Damages

Environmental factors such as temperature changes or the settling of buildings may cause the paint to peel away from the wall or building. Cracks may also be found due to improper drying of walls or ceilings.

Poor Workmanship

Sometimes workers may not be aware of detailed attention to project specifications. This may lead to incomplete finishes, uneven surfaces, and missed joints.

Unsuitable Construction Design

When the initial architectural design is not accurate about the designing process, it results in poor design outcomes.

Issues that arise due to faulty machines and equipment

Equipment and machines are widely used for electrical and plumbing purposes. When there is a fault in using these machines or equipment, it results in poor wiring work and leakage problems.

Wrong Installation of Materials

Materials like tiles, fixtures, and insulations are installed properly. If there is any issue with these materials, it can reduce their function and lifespan.

Faulty Smoke

Any malfunction or improper installation of smoke and fire detectors may cause insecurity to the occupants and violate the building rules and regulations.

What is a Snag List?

Different problems might crop up during the final stage of the completion phase. During the site inspection, the contractor or developer may identify defects or minor issues. As soon as they are identified, they compile a systematic record of lists that comprise the details of different problems and locations that arise in the construction process called a snagging list. 

Some defects, such as cracks in the painted wall, damage to windows, leakage in water pipes, etc., can be included in this list. These noticed problems are then rectified as per the lists taken by them. As per the nature of the problem, the building authorities provide attention to patch up the defects as soon as possible.

The common format of snagging lists comes along these lines:

• Item Number
• The location of the snag identified
• Type of the problem
• The date at which the snag was identified
• Information about the snag
• Schedule for rectification
• Follow-up

Snagging Lists in Construction

The top 10 snag lists that can be identified in construction are as follows:

• Fibres in Concrete

Fibres are used to reduce cracking in concrete slabs. Often they can appear on the surface of the concrete slabs. Regular maintenance may prevent vehicular damage in the future.

• Missed installations

Loose wiring and missed joints are essential to rectify in this stage. Unfinished electrical work can be addressed during this phase.

• Cleaning problems

Final cleaning is essential after completing all the outstanding works. Clearing the waste is important before handing it over to the client.

• Unsatisfied painting

Once the construction work is finished, painting has to be done. It is a critical part where you have to check whether the coating is applied evenly at all parts of the building. Missed parts should be painted as soon as you find them.

• Manhole work

Manholes in the site can be checked to see if they open and close properly. It will be easy for future maintenance purposes.

• Joinery issues

The proper functioning of windows and doors can be thoroughly analysed.

• Damaged items

Elements such as lights, doors, fixtures, switches, and fire or smoke detectors can be checked for damage. They needs quick repair and replacement.

• Small holes in the wall

Small holes in the wall can be detected and filled quickly to avoid further damage caused to the wall.

• Sealing problem

Proper sealing is essential for fire detectors. It ensures safety standards.

• Incomplete false ceiling

The panels used in the false ceiling must be checked for their proper fit and secured. 

Snagging is the vital final check of the building project to deliver a detect-free project to the client. Thorough snagging inspections help the contractors and developers catch any defects and provide a finished product that aligns with contractual and regular standards.

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